Project: Boulevard Beach House
Architecture: Zen Architects
Builder: R & B Kahle
Interiors: Doherty Design Studio
Location:Wadawurrung Country, Torquay, Victoria, Australia
Area: 180 m2
Year: 2012
Photo Credits: Gorta Yuuki
Boulevard Beach House evokes the fond memory of an elevated timber beach house while offering a fresh, contemporary take. Drawing inspiration from simple, elegant forms and practical, efficient spaces, the design feels both entirely new and surprisingly familiar.
Harmonizing with the Coastal Environment
The house is designed to harness the sun’s energy while providing shelter from the extreme weather of Bass Strait. Carefully placed apertures capture incredible sea views without compromising privacy. As a result, residents can enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas while feeling secure and connected to the rugged coastline. The design also takes into account the powerful winds and salty air, ensuring that every detail is built to withstand the forces of nature.
Retaining the Garden and Local Character
By using a similar footprint to the original house, the project preserves the existing garden, complete with several mature trees that anchor the property in its local environment. This thoughtful approach creates a strong sense of continuity with the past. Moreover, the stained cypress pine weatherboard cladding is designed to age gracefully into a silver-gray finish. This transformation not only enhances the natural beauty of the home but also helps it blend seamlessly with the established landscape.
Warm and Inviting Interiors
Inside, the house welcomes you with a restrained material palette that creates a warm, natural atmosphere. Recycled timber joinery, local hardwood floors, and goats’ wool carpet work in harmony to evoke a sense of comfort and calm. Each room is designed to be light-filled and spacious, with large windows that invite the outdoors inside. The interiors offer a perfect balance between modern functionality and a timeless connection to nature.
Thoughtful Details and Sustainable Features
Every element of Boulevard Beach House is carefully considered to provide both beauty and durability. The design respects the heritage of the original home while introducing modern touches that enhance everyday living. Sustainable practices are woven into the project, from the choice of materials that age gracefully to the use of natural light and ventilation to reduce energy consumption. This attention to detail creates a serene retreat that stands the test of time.
Overall, Boulevard Beach House is a refined blend of modern design and coastal heritage. It offers a welcoming space where the natural world is celebrated through thoughtful architecture and sustainable solutions. Whether enjoying the sweeping sea views or relaxing in the quiet, sunlit interiors, residents are invited to experience a lifestyle that is both invigorating and deeply connected to nature.
